Fort Wayne dragon boat races June 23 to feature tailgating party and more activities

The dragon boat races planned for June 23 downtown on the St. Marys River will include additional events, including a tailgating party the night before and opening ceremonies featuring Chinese dancing.

Riverfront Fort Wayne and the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department announced the additional event details today. The event will be based in Headwaters Park, Superior and Clinton streets, and admission is free and open to the public.

Registration for dragon boat teams continues through June 1. Cost is $2,100 per team.

Full payment is due at time of registration, but the roster of team members can be presented at the race, the announcement said. To register, contact Megan.Butler@cityoffortwayne.org.

Each team must have 20 paddlers, including a captain and drummer, the announcement said. The drummer can’t weigh more than 160 pounds.

Teams will race their boat at least twice during the day and will receive practice time, the announcement said. All training and equipment will be supplied to teams during practices and on race day, including the boat, life vests, paddles and a steerman/coach.

The tailgating party June 22 will include live music by U.R.B., yard games, food and drinks, the announcement said. Race day June 23 will include catering and bar service from The Deck, a Drummer’s Parade, a Spicy Ramen Eating Contest, the Steersman Auction, yard games and free children’s activities and crafts.

The opening ceremonies at 8 a.m. June 23 will feature the Chinese Friends and Family group performing the Eye Dotting ceremony, Beautiful China Dance, Dragon Dance and Drum Dance.